EU calls on Russia to implement its commitments under Minsk agreement

(QHA) -

The European Union has called on Russia to implement its commitments under the Minsk agreement to resolve the Ukraine crisis, underscoring the Kremlin’s “responsibility” in the process.

The EU said in an October 20 declaration following a meeting of its foreign ministers that it expects "full engagement and swift implementation of all other commitments under the Minsk documents," calling for "the withdrawal of illegal armed groups, military equipment, fighters and mercenaries, as well as for the securing of the Ukrainian-Russian border."

The declaration came on the same day as a massive explosion near a munitions plant in the separatist-controlled city of Donetsk in eastern Ukraine. There were no immediate reports of casualties.

Pro-Russian rebels said Ukrainian forces struck the factory with a rocket. The Ukrainian military denied involvement.